Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone has revealed why Diego Costa wanted to depart the club on a free transfer.

The Wanda Metropolitano club reached a mutual agreement with Costa to terminate the Spain international striker’s stay at the club.

The former Chelsea forward’s deal with the La Liga giants was set to expire in June 2021 but he has asked the club to end his stay prematurely due to personal reasons.

Simeone said: “We have spent a lot of time together over the years, he has given us a lot and we have given him a lot too.

“We spoke about his personal issues and the club wanted to help him without harming its own interests and we feel better now we have resolved the issue.

“He felt the need to find a new challenge, and I’m sure wherever he goes he will do well, because he’s a fighter.”